To carry out an echo-integrator survey to determine the biomass and distribution of sandeel and clupeid shoals in the Moray Firth and to determine fish species and size composition through trawl sampling. To assess fish predator numbers through demersal trawl sampling and to collect stomach samples for dietary and food consumption analysis. To determine the numbers and distribution of mammalian and avian predators using transect census methods and to collect observation data regarding diet. To determine spatial variation in water temperature and salinity and to assess the biomass and distribution of phytoplankton and zooplankton.